When you think of Málaga, sun, beaches, and seaside tapas probably come to mind. But what many travelers miss is that this city is also a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. If you’re the kind of explorer who loves discovering through food, these Málaga sweet treats will surprise you with their flavor, tradition, and personality.
From sesame-and-anise pastries to festive puff pastries and fig-packed snacks, this list is your gateway to tasting Málaga in its sweetest form.
Málaga sweet treats you need to try while visiting
🥧 1. Torta malagueña de aceite (Málaga Olive Oil Cake)
Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, with a distinct flavor of anise and sesame seeds. It’s made from simple ingredients—flour, olive oil, and sugar—but don’t let that fool you. This traditional treat tastes like comfort and nostalgia, and it’s perfect with a coffee while soaking in the city vibes.
🍊 2. Tortas Locas (Málaga’s “Crazy Cakes”)
Yes, they’re as fun as they sound. Two layers of puff pastry, filled with smooth pastry cream, and topped with a shiny, bright orange glaze that looks straight out of a cartoon. Born in the 1950s, these iconic pastries broke all the rules of local baking—and have been winning hearts (and sweet tooths) ever since.
🍇 3. Roscos de vino (Wine Doughnuts)
These soft, crumbly little rings are made with Málaga’s famous sweet wine, olive oil, and flour, and then dusted with powdered sugar. Though often eaten during Christmas, you can find them year-round in traditional bakeries. They melt in your mouth and go perfectly with a mid-afternoon coffee or tea.
🍯 4. Pestiños
A crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside kind of treat that smells like an Andalusian holiday. Made with flour dough flavored with anise, sesame, and citrus zest, pestiños are fried in olive oil and either dipped in warm honey or sprinkled with sugar. You’ll mostly find them around Christmas or Easter, but if you’re lucky, some old-school bakeries have them year-round.
🥜 5. Tortas de Algarrobo (Spiced Almond Cakes)
These dense, rustic pastries come from the inland town of Algarrobo and are packed with almonds, cinnamon, cloves, and a hint of anise. Their bold, spiced flavor makes them the perfect snack for cold days—or cozy nights with a glass of sweet wine. Bonus: they’re great travel snacks (if you can resist eating them on the spot).
🌾 6. Pan de higo (Fig Bread)
This energy-packed sweet combines dried figs, nuts (usually almonds and walnuts), and spices like cinnamon or anise. Sometimes it’s even splashed with a bit of local liqueur for extra kick. It’s compact, chewy, and naturally sweet—ideal for hiking, city exploring, or pairing with a strong cheese.
🍽️ Where to Find Them
You’ll spot these treats at traditional bakeries, old-school sweet shops, and local markets like the iconic Mercado de Atarazanas—one of the best places to taste Málaga’s local flavor (literally).
And if you’re staying at Superlativo Hostels, you’re in luck: the market is just a 15-minute walk through the beautiful streets of Málaga’s city center. The stroll alone is worth it, and what awaits at the end—warm pastries, friendly locals, and serious foodie vibes—makes it even better.
If you see a counter full of pastries you don’t recognize—say yes. You’ll probably discover something magical that’s not even on Google Maps.
✨ Because Traveling Is Also About Tasting
A city isn’t just something you see—it’s something you taste, smell, and feel. In Málaga, that often means sweet things with stories behind them. So next time you’re exploring its streets, follow your nose and your cravings.
And if you fall in love with one of these pastries (trust us, you will), share it with us. We’re big believers in dessert without guilt 😉
